36 AMU/FS recognizes newest dedicated crew chiefs

Published Nov. 23, 2015
By Staff Sgt. Benjamin Sutton
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Twenty-seven maintenance Airmen received the title Dedicated Crew Chief, or DCC, at a ceremony here Nov 20, 2015.

The ceremony recognized them as the maintenance experts on their respective aircraft.

The newest DCCs are assigned an F-16 Fighting Falcon which bears their name and are responsible for all maintenance, upkeep, general appearance and maintenance discrepancies.

"Being selected as a dedicated crew chief is such an honor," said Staff Sgt. Nathan Lewis, 51st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron DCC. "I am very proud to maintain the 51st Fighter Wing flagship. These jets are able to deliver effective airpower to defend the interests of the United States and our allies anywhere across the globe."

Lewis was selected from more than 40 crew chiefs to maintain the 51st FW flagship, the aircraft flown by Col. Andrew Hansen, 51st FW commander.

"Given the high operations tempo here, our aircraft are in high demand," said Staff Sgt. Bryan Boswell, 51st AMXS DCC. "In order for us to defend the base at a moment's notice, there needs to be continuity between maintainers and aircraft."

Boswell was selected to be the DCC of the 7th Air Force flagship, the aircraft flown by Lt. Gen. Terrence J. O'Shaughnessy, 7th AF commander.

The ceremony formally outlined the expectations for DCCs as well as being a chance to recognize these individuals who have demonstrated the highest levels of dedication and hard work.

"Our job as maintainers is very important to not only the mission here in South Korea, but the overall Air Force mission," said Boswell. "Without the efforts of hard-working maintainers, we would not be able to provide such a world-class, combat capability."

Finally, the ceremony is an opportunity to establish and build the human relationship and bond between pilot and DCC.

"This ceremony is a great way to take a moment and recognize members who are going above and beyond and acknowledge their hard work," said Master Sgt. Patrick McManaman, 36th Aircraft Maintenance Unit aircraft section chief. "We are extremely proud of their accomplishments as members of the 51st Fighter Wing team."